Why a P5?
The Mazda Protege5 is an awesome vehicle full of potential, There are alot of people on these boards that love there p5 and have hooked them up nicely. Alot of my friends have them and really enjoy the car. It is great on the twisties, yeah originally they dont have alot of power but you can change that with aftermarket accesories. I believe if you decide to get one you will not be disapointed.
I also say forget what your buddy says, You say he has a 98 Nissan Sentra, Well unless he has the se-r version his car is a piece of s***. (In my opinion) You would definately take him. So go with the P5 and if you need help our have questions check this forum out, I am sure if you have any type of question it will be in here. Hope to see you soon as being a Mazda owner. Later